Preparing for Aconcagua

My emotions are stoic yet excited. I’m lamenting the money I dropped on this experience, but I know it will be worth it. I hope my physical capabilities will be enough to push me to the top. Mentally I am prepared, physically I have done everything in my power to be ready for this. Anticipation is killing me, and I am ready to test my limits.

Wonderful World of Winter

I know there are a lot of haters out there so I want to set the record straight. The best time to go for a hike is when it’s cold. In most cases, the colder and the more snow the better. Sure there are exceptions; I’ve struggled to sleep at negative 20 degrees, or labored through five feet of fresh snow before. But my most active months for local trips are always January and February.

The National Parks

I’ve stood on the edge in these places, climbed their tallest peaks, shared adventures with friends that I can never forget and because of these things, these places will forever have a special place in my heart. As always with places that are special to us, we think about their longevity and continued existence for others to enjoy.

Reflection on a Thru-hike

I keep my eyes on the calendar, watching the days move by and watching October 11 creep closer and closer. A day that is inscribed in my memory just as much as any birthday or holiday, an occasion I can’t forget. When the calendar reaches October 11 this year, It will have been one year since I completed my northbound Appalachian Trail thru hike.

The Story Behind the Names

Popularized on the Appalachian Trail, and now adopted on many long distance trails, it is customary to be given a new name, a trail name. The reasons for this can be many, but put simply you take on a new identity from that you which previously possessed and are renamed.

10 Things You Need to Know Before You Go to Philmont

If you’re gearing up for a trip to Philmont or even just dreaming about a trip out to the High Adventure Base then this blog is perfect for you. Below are ten of my best tips and tricks to make your New Mexico trip successful, safe, and fun. These are tips that I learned the hard way when I was at Philmont in 2014 and I’m sharing them with you so that you know them before you even go.

Rock Climbing, PBR and Overcoming Fear

Climbing is a ridiculous sport. It involves humans scaling up rock formations against gravity, sometimes without any apparent reason. If you’ve ever had to explain your rock climbing hobbies to a non-climber, their expressions and questions confirm that what you’re saying is absurd. Have you ever tried to describe a cam to your non-climbing uncle? […]

New Zealand Trip Planning Follow-Up

RRT employee Mackenzie just spent two weeks exploring New Zealand! Prior to leaving, she posted a blog about all the preparation that goes into planning a trip like this. This blog is a follow-up where she discusses how potential issues were resolved and what other problems arose during the trip.